Polonnaruwa City

Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s second ancient capital, is famed for its well-preserved royal palaces, Buddhist temples, and advanced irrigation systems, including the massive Parakrama Samudra reservoir.

Polonnaruwa is an ancient city in Sri Lanka that served as the second capital of the country after the decline of Anuradhapura. The city rose to prominence during the reign of King Vijayabahu I in the late 11th century CE and became a major center for both administration and Buddhism.

Polonnaruwa is renowned for its well-preserved archaeological sites, including royal palaces, Buddhist temples, and statues. Key attractions include the Royal Palace complex, the Quadrangle (which houses the Sacred Tooth Relic), and the impressive Gal Vihara rock temple, known for its massive Buddha statues carved into granite.

The city also showcases advanced ancient irrigation systems, including the Parakrama Samudra, a massive reservoir constructed by King Parakramabahu

Boat riding by the sunset in the Polonnaruwa city

Activities

• Royal Palaces: The ruins of the Royal Palaces offer a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Sri Lankan royalty.
• Buddhist Temples: Notable temples like the Gal Viharaya, which features impressive rock-cut Buddha statues, highlight the island’s rich Buddhist heritage.
• Advanced Irrigation Systems: The Parakrama Samudra, a massive reservoir built during King Parakramabahu I’s reign, showcases the advanced engineering skills of the time.